Thursday, September 15, 2011

FAVORITE FIRST LINES CONTEST

What grabs your attention when you choose a book? It's been argued that the cover is most important, or the blurb alone determines whether you read it or not, or perhaps the first line, the first paragraph, or the first chapter.

Firsts. That's what it's all about--how to make a reader choose your book. For this little contest, I have chosen first lines from ten books written by author acquaintances. In other words, this list does not contain, "It was the best of times, it was..." You get the picture.

Want to take this poll? Read the ten lines and choose three you like best, or those you think would make you buy the book. Rank your three choices 1, 2, 3 using the letters...and tell me in acomment.

If you want to take the time, tell me why your first choice caught your attention.After a couple of days, I'll determine the top three winners--and reveal the authors and the title of the book.

I'm using letters. List them in order of best first in your comment. Ready?

I have to go with G. Because I love the idea of a man in a tight spot.D. Who hasn't wanted to kill a man at some point. Did the speaker already kill him and wants a rerun?F. Who shot him? Why? And What plans did they screw up?

F- because it's funny and shouldn't be so it grabs my attention.B- is dramatic. It sounds like an historical with some great plot twist, intrigue and action--right up my alley.And I can't choose between D and G.D has to be a paranormal and again, I love the humor. And G sounds like the kind of western I'd love to see made into a movie. Someone's going to have to choose between those two for me. lol!

B - because of the immediate urgency--it draws me in, even though the subject matter might not be one I'd chose.D - for the same reason as above and because it's a terrific juxtaposed imageG- for the imagery :)

D. I like the humour. Promises me a chic lit, I think. I love those.G. Begins at a pivotal point in the action. I like the visual predicament.B. Somewhat melodramatic but I'd read on because the story promises to be a historical thriller. I sense an Edgar Alan Poe style.

No. 1. F - I want to know exactly where Cole got shot and what the plans are that will be all messed up, and why? and who shot him? and why? Who is Cole? Who is the unsympathetic character speaking? Where are they? Will Cole get some medical attention? How bad is his injury? This first line sets up so many story questions, it could take an entire novel to discover the answers. A brilliant first line. :)